MERCOSUR: 30 years behind. What’s ahead?

Abstract

The integration association of South American countries – MERCOSUR – celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2021. During this period the largest integration grouping of South American states has passed a difficult path of establishment and development in the form of a free trade zone and a customs union. Due to many internal and external reasons not everything was done as originally planned. MERCOSUR had gone through a series of crises, with sharp disagreements breaking out between its participants. Nevertheless, despite all the difficulties and obstacles, MERCOSUR eventually continues to play a prominent role in global trade and world economy, and, given its total production potential, remains an attractive economic partner for countries in different parts of the world.